Body of missing fashion designer Michele Savoia found in Hudson River

The body of fashion designer Michele Savoia, who had been missing since Thursday, was found in the Hudson River Sunday near Chelsea Piers.

Savoia, 55, was last seen on Thursday at club Marquee on the West Side just before 4 a.m. Detectives believe he slipped and fell into the Hudson after going to his boat that he lived on, docked 10 blocks south of Marquee on West 17th Street.

Savoia was first reported missing Saturday morning by his driver.

He was a well-known tailor and menswear designer and was supposed to meet his ex-girlfriend on Valentine's Day night, but he never showed up.

He made suits for celebrities such as Robert DeNiro and Matt Dillon and worked on Broadway costumes.

"He could be difficult, but he was also the most incredible loving friend," friend Kevin Dalton said. "He would literally give you the shirt off his back, even if it cost $5,000."

An autopsy on Monday found the cause and manner of death is inconclusive, pending further studies. Additional toxicology tests will be conducted. Savoia's death is not considered suspicious.

Friends say he knew the dangers of living on the water.

"I slipped on a nice sunny day when it was wet there," Dalton said. "So it was dangerous, but he knew the risks, because if you do stay there, they basically say you're on your own."